Glossary

Glossary of Terms

Accessory breast tissue The presence of extra breast tissue that may be associated with extra nipples. Often found towards the armpit.

Acute breast abscessAn infection of the breast with a collection of pus in the breast tissues

Acute MastitisThis occurs when bacteria get into the breast. It is particularly likely to occur during breastfeeding, due to the milk ducts in the breast being more exposed than normal.

AmastiaThe absence of the mammary glands (either through surgery or developmental defect)

AreolaThe dark area that surrounds the nipple

Areola sparing Mastectomy (ASM)Areola-sparing mastectomy is defined as resecting the nipple and any existing surgical biopsy scar, removing all breast parenchyma, and leaving a natural envelope of skin (including the areola), which may improve the aesthetic result of immediate reconstruction. Suitability for this type of reconstruction will depend on the type of cancer present.

Arimidex (anastrozole)Arimidex is a type of hormonal therapy used in the treatment of breast cancer in women who have had their menopause. It is an aromatase inhibitor (see below.)

Aromasin (exemestane)Aromasin is a type of hormonal therapy that is used in the treatment of breast cancer in women who have had their menopause. It is an aromastase inhibitor (see below.)

Aromatase InhibitorsThese are drugs that block the formation of oestrogen.

Atypical Lobular HyperplasiaA disorganised overgrowth of the cells in the breast lobule. This may indicate an early form of genetic or genomic instability within the breast.

AtheliaThe absence of nipples

Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH)Abnormal cells in the breast milk ducts which are considered to show a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Patients with ADH should have regular check-ups.

Atypical lobular hyperplasia An overgrowth of the cells in the breast lobule in a disorganized way that may represent the earliest form of instability within the breast.

AxillaThe armpit region.

Axillary dissectionA procedure which dissects the lymph nodes in the axilla (armpit) during surgery, usually performed in conjunction with breast cancer surgery.

Axillary lymph glands (or lymph nodes)The glands in the armpit region. There are around 20 lymph glands in each armpit which can increase in size if infected, or if invaded by cancer cells.

Benign Breast Change (BBC)Also known as benign mammary dysplasia, cystic mastitis, fibroadenosis and fibrocystic change is a condition occurring as a result of normal hormonal activity during the menstrual cycle.

Benign lumpA harmless breast lump which is not cancerous.

Benign tumour A non cancerous growth or swelling that does not invade, or spread to, other parts of the body.

Bone scanA method of viewing any cancer deposits in the skeleton by injecting a radioactive material into the blood stream. Areas of bone containing groups of cancer cells may appear as hot spots.

ChemotherapyTreatment for cancer with powerful (cytoxic) drugs by mouth or injection, under the care of a consultant oncologist. Side effects can include sickness, tiredness, hair loss and mouth ulcers.

Chest XrayAn xray investigation to determine whether cancer has spread to the lungs. It is also used, prior to surgery, to check that the patient is well enough to undergo a general anaesthetic.

Consultant RadiologistA doctor who specialises in interpreting x-rays, mammograms and ultrasound imaging of the breast.

Core biopsyA breast needle biopsy, carried out under local anaesthetic, to obtain a small piece of tissue for examination (histopathology); this can also be carried out under x-ray or ultrasound control.

ChromosomeChromosomes are microscopic structures, found in the nuclei of cells. The nucleus of most human cells contains 2 sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. Every human has 24 distinct chromosomes, including the X and Y sex determining chromosomes.

Chronic mastitisAlso known as benign breast disease, or fibrocystic disease. This is where there is a discrete lump (fibroadenoma) or general lumpiness in the breast causing discomfort. There may be a discharge from the nipple and it tends to be worse pre-menstrually.

CystA common cause for a breast lump consisting of a fluid-filled space within the breast.

Cytologist A doctor, who specialises in looking at cells using a microscope.

CytologyThe assessment of breast cells under a microscope to look for abnormalities.

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)
A very early form of breast cancer, which can be referred to as a pre-malignant (pre-cancerous) condition. It develops only within the milk ducts and cannot spread.

Ectopic breast tissue Breast tissue found in a site other than related to the normal position of the breast

EczemaEczema, or dermatitis as it is sometimes called, is a group of skin conditions which can affect all age groups. The severity of the disease can vary. In mild forms the skin is dry, hot and itchy, whilst in more severe forms the skin can become broken, raw and bleeding. Although it can sometimes look unpleasant, eczema is not contagious. With treatment the inflammation of eczema can be reduced, though the skin will always be sensitive to flare-ups and need extra care.

Excess The amount that an insured patient has agreed to have as a responsibility to pay for a claim when taking out and insurance policy. It can either be an annual amount or a per claim amount.

Excision Biopsy With LocalisationExcision biopsy, by a breast surgeon guided by a consultant radiologist, using a wire placement, or skin marking prior to surgery. It is used to remove an impalpable abnormality (one that could not be detected by physical examination).

Family HistoryThe occurrence of breast cancer within members of a family which may, or may not, pre-dispose the patient to breast cancer.

Fat NecrosisA condition in which an area of fat in the breast becomes hard and nodular. It can occur after breast trauma. This is a benign condition but can sometimes mimic breast cancer. It usually occurs in women with large breasts.

Femara (letrozole)Femara is a type of hormonal therapy that is used in the treatment of breast cancer in women who have had their menopause. It is an aromatase inhibitor.

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC)The removal of cells from the breast for assessment (cytology) using a thin needle and a syringe.

FibroadenomaA benign solid breast lump found mainly in young women. It is thought to result from increased sensitivity to oestrogen.

Galactocoele A blocked milk duct leading to a cystic collection of milk, usually associated with breast feeding and childbirth

GenesGenes comprise particles of DNA, packaged in chromosomes. They determine when and where the body makes each of the many thousands of proteins required for life and instruct cells in their growth and function. Humans have 20-30,000 genes. Researchers hunt for disease associated genes has resulted in a number being identified, including some that are pre-determiners for cancer. Better understanding of the function of genes and their contribution to disease is leading to increasingly improved treatments.

GeneticRelating to genes; the term indicates something inherited, this can include a pre-disposition to certain diseases.

GenomeThe Human Genome Project has identified all the human genes carried on the chromosomes. The Human Genome Sequence affects, among other things, an individuals response to disease and particular medicines.

GynaecomastiaA condition in which men develop enlargement of the breast tissue behind the nipple. Common in pubertal boys and older men, it can be caused by many common medications. In 90% of teenage boys, it tends to resolve itself within two years. The condition normally requires investigation to exclude breast cancer.

HamartomaHamartomas are an uncommon benign breast lesion composed of variable amounts of adipose, glandular and fibrous tissues. They are usually asymptomatic but may be palpable. Most occur in women over 35. A confident diagnosis can be made on mammography when the lesion has a classical appearance.

HaematomaA localised collection of blood usually clotted, in an organ, space or tissue.

HER2 TestA test to determine HER2 protein levels to determine whether the cancer may respond to drugs called monoclonal antibodies.

Herceptin (trastuzumab)A drug used in treating breast cancer which acts by blocking certain growth receptors (known as HER-2) on the surface of tumour cells. Only 20% - 25% of women will be sensitive to Herceptin. It also helps the bodys immune system to destroy breast cancer cells

HistopathologistA doctor, who specialises in looking at tissues using a microscope.

HistopathologyThe assessment of tissues under a microscope to look for abnormalities.
Hormone ReceptorA protein on a cell's surface that attracts a particular hormone and uses it to help the cell grow.

Immediate ReconstructionA breast reconstruction carried out immediately following a total mastectomy under the same anaesthetic.

Intracanalicular fibroadenoma A type of fibroadenoma in which the connective tissue is much more prominent and compresses the ductal element

Intraduct papilloma A benign epithelial tumour occurring within the breast ducts. It can cause nipple discharge which may be blood stained

Klinefelters SyndromeA rare genetic condition, in which affected men have an extra female chromosome. They may have an increased susceptibility to breast cancer.

LCIS (lobular carcinoma in situ)A pre-malignant (pre-cancerous) condition which develops in the lobules of the breast. Patients with this condition require careful monitoring.

Liver UltrasoundAn ultrasound investigation to determine whether the cancer has spread to the liver.

LocalisationGuidance by a Consultant Radiologist for a Consultant Breast Surgeon by use of a wire placement or skin marking prior to surgery to remove an impalpable abnormality.

LumpectomyThe surgical removal of a lump in the breast.

LymphoedemaThe accumulation of lymph fluid in the arm leading to arm swelling.

MalignantThe medical term for cancerous. It is used to describe a tumour, which has the potential to grow quickly and spread.

Mammary Duct Ectasia The ducts behind the nipple become dilated. This is a normal breast change. Sometimes fluid collects in the ducts and they get blocked leading to a discharge, inflammation or an infection.
Mammilary fistulaA tract between the nipple and the skin at the edge of the areolar, usually the result of infection with an abscess.

MammogramA breast x-ray, generally only suitable for women aged 35 or over, performed by a radiographer and viewed by a consultant radiologist.

MastalgiaThe medical term for breast pain.

MastectomyRemoval of an entire breast or segment of a breast (segmental mastectomy).

MastitisMastitis is an inflammation of the breast. There are two types of mastitis, acute or chronic. Though both cause inflammation, pain and tenderness in the breast they are different in cause.

Medical OncologistA consultant who specialises in chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal treatments for cancer.

MetastasesWhere the breast cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.

MicrocalcificationTiny 'salty' grains of calcium which show up on a mammogram. This is normally an age-related change, but it can be a sign of cancer or DCIS.
Mondors ConditionThis is a rare benign condition which involves a blood clot of the superficial veins of the breast and anterior chest wall.

Monoclonal antibodiesA type of breast cancer drug used to treat people who are HER2 positive, about 20% - 25% of cases. The most commonly known is Herceptin.

Montgomerys tuberclesSebaceous glands, not associated with hair follicles, that are found in the skin of the areola and open into the ducts just beneath the nipple. They form visible swellings on the areola and can become inflamed.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Image)A harmless but noisy multi-dimensional imaging scan using a very high strength magnetic field which creates detailed images of the body. An injection of dye is sometimes used.

Nipple areola complex (NAC)The central area of the breast comprising of the areola and the nipple

Non Skin Sparing Mastectomy (NSSM)An operation which removes sufficient skin at time of mastectomy to leave a flat scar on the chest.

OestrogenProgesterone is one of two main hormones, the other being oestrogen, made by the ovaries of menstruating women

OncologyThe medical speciality dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Onco-Plastic SurgeonA Consultant Breast Surgeon who performs both the total mastectomy and the breast reconstruction.

Outpatient allowanceSome medical insurance companies cap how much benefit they will pay annually for outpatient treatment eg consultations, xrays etc. This is known as an outpatient allowance.

PalpationThe technique used in examining a breast, to assess the type, size and location of a lump.

Papilloma A benign tumour of epithelial cells.

Pagets diseaseA type of precancerous lesion that looks like eczema or dermatitis. This affects the nipple and the areola and is sometimes associated with DCIS or an invasive cancer.

PathologistA doctor who specialises in looking at cells and tissues using a microscope; also referred to as a cytologist (cells) or histopathologist (tissue).

Pericanalicular fibroadenoma A type of fibroadenoma characterized by rounded duct like structures surrounded by concentric rings of connective tissue.

Periductal mastitisA condition in which inflammation occurs in the area around the main ducts beneath the nipple. It is related to cigarette smoking and causes recurrent abscess and fistulae. It is very difficult to treat if the woman continues to smoke.

Phyllodes tumourA rare type of breast lump that may grow quite large, normally occur in women between 40 and 50 who have not yet been through the menopause. They are usually benign but occasionally can be malignant. Usually treated by surgical removal.

Plain X-Ray All x-rays excluding mammograms.

Polymastia The presence of more than one pair of breasts.

Polythelia The presence of extra nipples. These can occur anywhere along the nipple line that runs from the armpit region to the groin.

ProgesteroneProgesterone is one of two main hormones, the other being oestrogen, made by ovaries of menstruating women.

Radiographer A radiographer is the person trained in taking xrays.

RadiotherapistA radiotherapist is a doctor specialising in treating disease using radiotherapy.

RadiotherapyPainless form of high energy x-ray treatment used to destroy cancer cells carried out by a Clinical Oncologist/ Radiotherapist.

Sebaceous cystThey originate from blocked oil glands in the skin. They are found on most areas of the body including the breast. Cysts can become red and tender when infected and have a collection of pus. They are always benign and do not develop into cancer but although normally a cosmetic problem excision is advised when formed in places that are easily irritated so will continually recur.

ShortfallPart of the cost of treatment not paid for by a medical insurance company arising from benefit restrictions or policy conditions.

Skin Sparing Mastectomy (SSM)An operation in which most of the skin of the breast is left behind, apart from the nipple areola complex. This helps if an immediate reconstruction is being carried out as the original skin of the breast can be used. Suitability for this type of reconstruction will depend on the type of cancer present.

Squamous cell carcinomaSquamous cell carcinoma is a type of non-melanoma skin cancers. It is the second most common skin cancer in the UK.

Tamoxifen Medication for the treatment of breast cancer, which can also be used as a low dose treatment for breast pain.

Tuberculous breast abscess A breast abscess caused by the tuberculosis bacteria. Unlike a normal breast abscess this is not usually associated with redness or heat and is often called a cold abscess.

UltrasoundHigh frequency sound waves which are converted into an image of the breast. Ultrasound is used to diagnose breast problems in women under the mammogram age limit of 35, or as an additional investigation for patients who have had a mammogram.

Unstable BreastThis is a term used to describe the breast of some people affected by certain genomic, or genetic breast cancers, which are more likely to be multi-centric or to spread through the breast.

Wide Local ExcisionAn operation to remove, for pathological review, a suspicious or cancerous lump with a small margin of normal tissue around its edge.

X-Ray X-Ray is a form of invisible electromagnetic, short wavelength energy, that can be used to produce images of bones, organs and internal tissues.

Zoladex( goserelin)

Zoladex is a type of hormonal therapy that is used in the treatment of breast cancers and some other conditions for women who have not had the menopause. It stops the production of leuteinising hormone from the pituitary gland, which leads to a reduction in oestrogen levels. The cancer cells then grow more slowly or stop growing altogether. The cancer may shrink in size.